Penn State tackle Olu Fashanu will return to the Lions in 2023
Penn State will have at least three starters back along its offensive line in 2023. Left tackle Olu Fashanu told ESPN’s Pete Thamel on Monday that he will return to the Lions next fall. He is eligible to enter the NFL Draft. But, he will wait to do so to play another season in State College instead. Blue-White Illustrated has consistently reported that Fashanu was leaning toward staying in school since October.
“Penn State is an awesome place to go to school,” Fashanu told the outlet. “And I can get my education for free.”
In a tweeted statement, Fashanu wrote:
“For the last three years, I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to be around a group of extremely hardworking individuals. Everyone in this program has pushed me to become a better football player, and more importantly, a better man. Having the opportunity to play in Beaver Stadium in front of the best fans in the world this past year has been great and I will never forget the moments that were created with this team this season.
“Although playing in the NFL is a goal of mine, there is still more that I want to achieve personally and collectively as a program. After several conversations with my parents and coaches, I will be returning to Penn State for the 2023 season. I want to thank my family, teammates and coaches who have helped me get to this point in my life. My work here is far from over and I look forward to getting back to work with my brothers.”
Penn State has three pieces of its offensive line in place for the 2023 season
Fashanu’s decision is the first major development for head coach James Franklin’s team since the regular season ended with a 35-16 win over Michigan State. He was projected as a first-round draft pick and possibly a top-10 choice. That’s true despite the fact that the lineman did not play against the Spartans. He has not been available on game day since limping off the field late in the Lions’ October loss to Ohio State. Penn State had been hoping that he could return this season. But, it’s unclear if he will be available for the team’s to-be-determined bowl destination.
Regardless of whether or not Fashanu plays in the postseason, he will be back to man his first-team spot next season. So, too, will interior lineman Hunter Nourzad. He announced earlier this month that he would be back. He was also able to enter the 2023 NFL Draft. Nourzad could play center or guard next year for Penn State.
It means that the Lions will have at least three starters back. Guard Landon Tengwall, who was ruled out for the season weeks after he was hurt before the Michigan game, is expected to return.
